Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Fort Ross State Historic Park
Fort Ross State Historic Park is a California state park located in Sonoma County, California. The park is situated on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, approximately three miles (5 km) northwest of Jenner, California. It is the site of a former Russian fur trading outpost established in 1812 and was the hub of the southernmost Russian settlements in North America. The park includes a visitor center, a reconstructed chapel, and the original fort walls and buildings. The park also offers a variety of activities, including hiking, picnicking, and beachcombing. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, harbor seals, and migrating whales.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Stewart Carnes
I had an amazing time exploring Fort Ross State Historic Park. The fort stands atop the bluffs and filled with stunning ocean views. The park shows us an amazing history of a Russian outpost settled in 1812. I went on Saturday and there were role players in the fort. There are several trails through the area.
Shelly G
Fort Ross was a highlight of our recent day trip from Bodega Bay. The drive along Highway 1 was breathtaking, with stunning coastal views and winding roads that made for an adventure in itself. The fort itself is rich in history, offering a glimpse into the Russian settlement that once thrived along this stretch of California’s coast. Walking through the reconstructed buildings, including the chapel and wooden stockade, gave us a real sense of life in the early 1800s. The visitor center had excellent exhibits on Russian exploration, trade, and interactions with the local Kashia Pomo people. One of our favorite parts was the beautiful walk down to the ocean. The trail winds through lush coastal terrain and opens up to a stunning view of the Pacific. We spotted seals lounging on the rocks and enjoyed the peaceful, rugged beauty of the shoreline. The weather was cool and breezy—perfect for exploring. If you’re in the Bodega Bay area, Fort Ross is well worth the visit. It’s a great mix of history, nature, and incredible scenery, making for a memorable day trip.
Christopher Chung
A fascinating, early 19th century historical site where Russian, Alaska Native and local Indigenous histories coalesced among 120+ residents. For wood carpentry enthusiast, the restored buildings are a beautiful testament to pre-mechanized, purely handcrafted woodwork. Picnic tables and a beach on site, perfect for outdoor enjoyment as well. A compact museum and easily digestible descriptions are informative, but not over-the-top in terms of information. Highly suggested pit stop along Highway 1.
Faith Edwards
Breathtaking views of the Pacific. The drive there winds around the coast. The fort itself is enormous. The original buildings are there, and you can walk through all of it. If time alots take a docent tour.
Mary Panzer
A very beautiful place on the roaring coast of Northern California. The drive to get there is really challenging. We met a bunch of Corvette drivers who had the best time getting there. I have a completely different view of the Russians since visiting this place. Very artistically built. They treated everyone equally. They did not demand converting to their religion. I was so impressed. Well worth the effort to visit.